Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen: Your Best Daily Skin Defense

Why Broad-Spectrum Sunscreen Matters

Not all sunscreens offer equal protection. Broad-spectrum sunscreen protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays, helping prevent sunburn, early aging, and even skin cancer.

• UVB rays (think “Burning”): cause visible burns and surface-level skin damage. They make up about 5% of UV exposure.
  

• UVA rays (think “Aging”): penetrate deeper, leading to DNA damage, wrinkles, dark spots, and collagen breakdown. These account for the other 95% of UV exposure.
  

If your sunscreen isn’t labeled “broad-spectrum,” it may leave you vulnerable.

Is SPF 30 Enough? What SPF Really Means

SPF (Sun Protection Factor) measures protection against UVB rays only. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation:

• SPF 30 blocks 97% of UVB rays
  

• SPF 40 blocks 97.5%
  

• SPF 50 blocks 98%
  

• SPF 100 blocks 99%
  

While higher SPF gives marginally more coverage, the bigger issue is UVA exposure. That’s why dermatologists suggest using broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 for strong daily protection.

Can You Still Tan with Sunscreen?

Yes. Even with SPF protection, some UV rays still reach the skin and trigger melanin (tanning). Sunscreen’s goal isn’t to stop tanning altogether, but to:

• Reduce the intensity of UV damage
  

• Delay visible sunburn
  

• Prevent long-term photoaging
  

For deeper skin tones or those prone to hyperpigmentation, opt for advanced formulas like AgeScreen® SPF 40, which provides ultra-high broad-spectrum protection without a white cast.

Boost Protection with Antioxidants

Broad-spectrum sunscreen is vital, but pairing it with antioxidants makes your defense stronger. Free radicals from UV rays, pollution, and blue light can accelerate skin aging. A serum like AgeLess 24/7®, enriched with marine extracts and potent antioxidants, provides extra protection against oxidative stress.

Smart Application Tips

✅ Apply two finger-lengths of sunscreen to your face and neck
✅ Reapply every 2 hours, or after swimming/sweating
✅ Use daily—even indoors or on cloudy days (UVA penetrates glass and clouds)

Want to learn how sunscreen protects tattoos, too? 👉 Read this expert guide

Final Take

Think of broad-spectrum sunscreen as your skin’s everyday shield. It guards against the visible damage you see now—like redness and sunburn—while preventing deeper cellular issues tomorrow.

For smarter results:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher
  

• Combine it with antioxidants
  

• Make it part of your daily routine

Discover AgeScreen® SPF 40 and start protecting your skin with science-driven care.